airBaltic has commenced naming its Airbus A220-300 fleet after Baltic cities. The cities were chosen in a vote held by the Latvian airline in August 2024, in which the public were asked to name their favourite city across the Baltic region.
airBaltic Names Aircraft in Celebration of Unity and Cultural Heritage
The naming contest was held to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the Baltic Way, a 1989 protest in which approximately two million people from the Baltic nations formed a human chain to challenge Soviet occupation.
Over one million votes were cast, with the first three aircraft named after Riga, Tallinn and Vilnius, the capitals of Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania, respectively. It is hoped that the aircraft, which also bear a distinctive flag livery of each corresponding nation, will increase recognition for the Baltic States worldwide, as well as celebrate the region’s unity and heritage.
The naming contest led to 48 names being shortlisted. The Latvian airline is planning on renaming its remaining 45 aircraft after these popular Baltic cities, according to the public vote.
Speaking about the initiative, Elīna Prāve, VP Marketing at airBaltic, commented:
We are grateful to everyone who participated in this contest and showed support for their favourite cities. By naming airBaltic aircraft after Baltic cities, we not only inspire travellers to explore these places but also promote their international recognition. We are proud to be a part of the region’s growth and strengthen its connectivity with the rest of the world.
More about airBaltic
airBaltic, founded in 1995, is the flag carrier of Latvia. Now flying to over 70 destinations, it was awarded third place in the Preferred Airline UK/Europe category at the 2025 Flyers’ Choice Awards.
Majority owned by the Latvian state, the airline’s main hub is Riga, with bases in Tallinn, Vilnius, Tampere, and, seasonally, Las Palmas.
Have you visited the Baltic region before? Share your experiences in the comment section below.
